... of the great opening day by Ben Revere.
I joined my first fantasy baseball league this year.
During Sunday's draft, I need an outfielder in the middle rounds.
I hadn't heard of Revere, but he was ranked among the best available when my turn came.
How'd he do?
Three hits, three RBI and two runs scored.
A nice way to start the season.
Monday, March 31, 2014
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Can he think about governing now?
Good job, Connecticut.
You knocked out President Obama's pick for the national championship.
And the last of his Final Four picks still playing.
Way to spend your time this winter, watching college basketball instead of thinking about Russia or healthcare.
Get back to work.
You knocked out President Obama's pick for the national championship.
And the last of his Final Four picks still playing.
Way to spend your time this winter, watching college basketball instead of thinking about Russia or healthcare.
Get back to work.
More benefits for the top 1 percent
The news that college athletes could join a union has been greeted as a triumph for the student over the big-money NCAA.
Members of the top college basketball and football programs want their share of the money produced for their schools.
How many would benefit from this?
Maybe one percent of the top players.
Who would get hurt?
The many players at lower levels, and minor sports, who have scholarships and place to place thanks to all the money brought in by March Madness and the coming football playoff.
If colleges need to pay athletes in football and men's basketball, there will be less for others.
Or we could raise the athletic fees for college, so the rest of the student body could give money to athletes on the top teams.
Think about it that way.
Members of the top college basketball and football programs want their share of the money produced for their schools.
How many would benefit from this?
Maybe one percent of the top players.
Who would get hurt?
The many players at lower levels, and minor sports, who have scholarships and place to place thanks to all the money brought in by March Madness and the coming football playoff.
If colleges need to pay athletes in football and men's basketball, there will be less for others.
Or we could raise the athletic fees for college, so the rest of the student body could give money to athletes on the top teams.
Think about it that way.
Inept would be an improvement
This New York Post columnist remains firmly convinced President Obama doesn't know what he's doing.
The view from his faculty lounge has no space for reality. Anything that doesn’t fit the grand plan is dismissed as illegitimate. So while global hot spots multiply and the world grows dangerously unstable, the president still plans to slash the military.
His trip abroad last week further secured his reputation for historic ineptitude. It wasn’t that the trip was a disaster — it never rose to that level. His presence and his promises simply made no difference.
The view from his faculty lounge has no space for reality. Anything that doesn’t fit the grand plan is dismissed as illegitimate. So while global hot spots multiply and the world grows dangerously unstable, the president still plans to slash the military.
His trip abroad last week further secured his reputation for historic ineptitude. It wasn’t that the trip was a disaster — it never rose to that level. His presence and his promises simply made no difference.
D is for Drifter
Howie Carr wants Scott Brown back in the Senate.
And doesn't see a problem for him crossing the border to New Hampshire.
I love the carpetbagging issue. Was Hillary Clinton from New York? Ditto, Robert Kennedy. Are Granny, Deval, Katherine Clark and Barney Frank from Massachusetts? Where were Jeanne Shaheen and Paul Hodes born?
The “D” after all their names doesn’t just stand for Democrat, it stands for “drifter.”
And doesn't see a problem for him crossing the border to New Hampshire.
I love the carpetbagging issue. Was Hillary Clinton from New York? Ditto, Robert Kennedy. Are Granny, Deval, Katherine Clark and Barney Frank from Massachusetts? Where were Jeanne Shaheen and Paul Hodes born?
The “D” after all their names doesn’t just stand for Democrat, it stands for “drifter.”
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Why you save stuff
Don Surber tells a story of why it's good to have information from the 70s hanging around.
Broken beyond repair
It takes a lot of toilets to flush $125.5 million down the drain.
Looks like Maryland found a way.
And you can't blame Republican obstruction.
Maryland is not alone in having deep-seated problems with its health marketplace. Technical issues also have plagued Oregon, Minnesota and Hawaii. But Maryland will be the first to walk away from its site, a particular embarrassment for Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown (D), who was placed in charged of implementing health-care reform in Maryland by Gov. Martin O’Malley (D).
Looks like Maryland found a way.
And you can't blame Republican obstruction.
Maryland is not alone in having deep-seated problems with its health marketplace. Technical issues also have plagued Oregon, Minnesota and Hawaii. But Maryland will be the first to walk away from its site, a particular embarrassment for Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown (D), who was placed in charged of implementing health-care reform in Maryland by Gov. Martin O’Malley (D).
Facebook quote of the week
Wish the scores at bottom of TV screen were bigger...maybe I'll go get the binoculars
Friday, March 28, 2014
Can we have a "Charles Barkley" show?
Waiting for the Virginia game, it's a hoot watching Charles Barkley and crew on CBS.
Probably one of the funniest 15 minutes of the TV season - capped by Barkley singing "My Way."
Probably one of the funniest 15 minutes of the TV season - capped by Barkley singing "My Way."
Name the party
Which party has the most politicians in trouble this week?
Right now, a crime wave is sweeping the nation, and everyone in this out-of-control mob has a D after their names, even if most of the media are loath to report it.
Talk about these guys? That's a bridge too far.
Right now, a crime wave is sweeping the nation, and everyone in this out-of-control mob has a D after their names, even if most of the media are loath to report it.
Talk about these guys? That's a bridge too far.
Weekend watchdog
The Carolina teams are gone.
The transfers from the Big East are done.
It's left to Virginia to uphold the honor of the ACC.
The top-seeded Cavaliers join the Garden Party Friday at 9:57 p.m., facing pundit-favorite Michigan State in New York on TBS. The winner advances to Sunday's East Region final against either Connecticut or Iowa State, who tip at 7:27 p.m.
CBS offers the Midwest Region matchups between Tennessee and Michigan at 7:15 p.m. and Louisville-Kentucky in the nightcap.
TBS has the regional finals Saturday - Dayton against Florida at 6 p.m. followed by the West regional between Wisconsin and Arizona.
CBS jumps back in the action Sunday at 2 and 4:30 p.m. - then it's off to the Final Four.
The women's Sweet 16 starts Saturday at noon on ESPN with Kentucky against Baylor. Undefeated Notre Dame goes Oklahoma State in the other regional semifinal at 2:30 p.m. It's off to Lincoln at 4:30 p.m. for undefeated Connecticut facing BYU, then Texas A&M takes on DePaul.
Tennessee tackles Maryland Sunday at noon on ESPN, and Louisville hosts LSU at 2:30 p.m. on ESPN2. Out west, Stanford meets Penn State at 4:30 p.m. and South Carolina plays North Carolina at 7 p.m.
The regional finals are Monday and Tuesday.
The best of Division II meet Saturday at 3 p.m. on CBS as West Liberty battles Central Missouri.
The Wizards face Indiana Friday at 7 p.m. on Comcast, and the Hawks come to town Saturday at 8 p.m.
Back from Australia, the Dodgers take on the Padres on ESPN Sunday night at 8 p.m.
The Nationals get ready for the season Saturday, hosting the Tigers at 2 p.m. on MASN.
On the college diamond, Baylor travels to West Virginia Sunday at 1:30 p.m. on FoxSports1.
NASCAR visits Martinsville Sunday at 1 p.m. on Fox, and the truck race will be on FoxSports1 at 2:30 p.m.
ABC has the opening race of the Indy Car series, Sunday at 3:30 p.m. from Florida.
The Formula One circuit hits Malayasia Sunday at 4 a.m. on NBC Sports network. There's practice at 2 a.m. Friday and qualifying Saturday at 4 a.m.
NBC offers the Flyers and Bruins Sunday at noon, while the Blackhawks and Penguins meet Sunday at 7:30 p.m. on NBC Sports network.
The road to the Frozen Four begins Saturday at 3 p.m. on ESPN2, then Robert Morris meets Minnesota in the West regional.
Top golfers meet at the Valero Texas Open Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. on NBC.
D.C. United meets Chicago in MLS action Saturday at 4 p.m. on NBC Sports network.
There's three matches in the Premier League Saturday morning, starting with Manchester United against Aston Villa at 8:45 a.m. Crystal Place clashes with Chelsea at 11 a.m. followed by Arsenal-Manchester City. Fulham faces Everton Sunday at 8:30 a.m. before Liverpool meets Tottenham Hotspur.
ESPN2 shows a men's semifinal from the Sony Open Friday at 3 p.m. ESPN has the second men's semifinal Friday at 7 p.m. and the men's championship Sunday at 2:30 p.m., while the women's championship will be on ESPN2 Saturday at 1 p.m.
Providence meets St. John's in college lacrosse Saturday at 6 p.m. on FoxSports1.
MASN2 has college softball between UTEP and Tulsa Saturday at 4 p.m.
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Fire up the Mayflower vans
Thirty years after the Colts left Baltimore, the state of Maryland thinks it can boss a business around.
It was trying to use eminent domain in 1984, and today with the Netflix show "House of Cards."
"House of Cards" has two options.
Getting their tax credits, or find Mayflower vans.
It's not like they need to do the show in Maryland.
It was trying to use eminent domain in 1984, and today with the Netflix show "House of Cards."
"House of Cards" has two options.
Getting their tax credits, or find Mayflower vans.
It's not like they need to do the show in Maryland.
How?
Harry Reid moves from messing up the Senate to predicting the Washington Redskins will change their name shortly.
And uses a lousy example.
The Wizards, you know, they were the Washington Bullets. With all the killing that took place, the murders in Washington, Abe Pollin – a very nice man – decided I don’t need any of this. So they changed it to the Washington Wizards. We’re all used to the Washington Wizards.
Except...
Have you seen the Wizards' current logos, trademarks and court set-ups?
They tried a different color scheme, but returned to the same one used by the Bullets during their tenure.
The Bullets were more fundamentally sound - holding the balls with the two l's of Bullets - while the Wizards have a "dc" logo with the ball atop the d.
The Redskins are much more popular.
Fans are much more invested in their Redskins stuff.
The chief logo has many more years to live.
If there were a better nickname out there, it would be in use by now.
And uses a lousy example.
The Wizards, you know, they were the Washington Bullets. With all the killing that took place, the murders in Washington, Abe Pollin – a very nice man – decided I don’t need any of this. So they changed it to the Washington Wizards. We’re all used to the Washington Wizards.
Except...
Have you seen the Wizards' current logos, trademarks and court set-ups?
They tried a different color scheme, but returned to the same one used by the Bullets during their tenure.
The Bullets were more fundamentally sound - holding the balls with the two l's of Bullets - while the Wizards have a "dc" logo with the ball atop the d.
The Redskins are much more popular.
Fans are much more invested in their Redskins stuff.
The chief logo has many more years to live.
If there were a better nickname out there, it would be in use by now.
Who gets the burden
Volokh offers space for a Stanford law professor to focus on the issues in the Hobby Lobby case.
He breaks down the hearing to four important questions.
(1) Could Hobby Lobby avoid a substantial burden on its religious exercise by dropping health insurance and paying fines of $2,000 per employee?
(2) Does the government have a compelling interest in protecting the statutory rights of Hobby Lobby’s employees?
(3) Would a ruling in favor of Hobby Lobby give rise to a slippery slope of exemptions from vaccines, minimum wage laws, anti-discrimination laws, and the like?
(4) Has the government satisfied the least restrictive means test?
I think the answer to all four questions is “no.” I offer brief thoughts on each below.
Read and learn.
He breaks down the hearing to four important questions.
(1) Could Hobby Lobby avoid a substantial burden on its religious exercise by dropping health insurance and paying fines of $2,000 per employee?
(2) Does the government have a compelling interest in protecting the statutory rights of Hobby Lobby’s employees?
(3) Would a ruling in favor of Hobby Lobby give rise to a slippery slope of exemptions from vaccines, minimum wage laws, anti-discrimination laws, and the like?
(4) Has the government satisfied the least restrictive means test?
I think the answer to all four questions is “no.” I offer brief thoughts on each below.
Read and learn.
Make it up as we go along
John Fund looks at the court case on exchanges - did Congress really mean subsidies should be dispensed only through state exchanges?
In a sign that the Obama Justice Department fears a defeat, it took the highly unusual step of asserting last week that the D.C. appeals court lacks the jurisdiction to invalidate its interpretation of Obamacare. The Wall Street Journal noted: “In other words, even if the court finds that the administration is acting illegally, it cannot strike down the IRS-HHS rule and the executive branch will continue to ignore both Congress’s law and the law of the courts. There are few if any precedents for such a remarkable argument.” Judges will clearly not be amused by arguments that the executive branch thinks they are superfluous.
In a sign that the Obama Justice Department fears a defeat, it took the highly unusual step of asserting last week that the D.C. appeals court lacks the jurisdiction to invalidate its interpretation of Obamacare. The Wall Street Journal noted: “In other words, even if the court finds that the administration is acting illegally, it cannot strike down the IRS-HHS rule and the executive branch will continue to ignore both Congress’s law and the law of the courts. There are few if any precedents for such a remarkable argument.” Judges will clearly not be amused by arguments that the executive branch thinks they are superfluous.
Track the delays
Politico gives a brief look at the Obamacare delays.
Check back frequently for updates.
Check back frequently for updates.
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Who started this mess?
Salon puts the pressure of unintended consequences on Hobby Lobby in its fight for a religious exemption from the contraceptive mandate.
But Hobby Lobby didn't write the law.
Or lobby for it.
Or pass it.
They are trying to deal with it.
Although I love the "you didn't build this yourself" angle of this paragraph.
Entrepreneurs, like the owners of Hobby Lobby, are provided innumerable privileges by the public that allow their businesses to thrive, and the price of those privileges is that they have to adhere to public laws and regulations.
You might have worked in the garage to start this business, but it's our world. You need to follow along.
Except for Hobby Lobby, it's God's world and we need to follow that.
But Hobby Lobby didn't write the law.
Or lobby for it.
Or pass it.
They are trying to deal with it.
Although I love the "you didn't build this yourself" angle of this paragraph.
Entrepreneurs, like the owners of Hobby Lobby, are provided innumerable privileges by the public that allow their businesses to thrive, and the price of those privileges is that they have to adhere to public laws and regulations.
You might have worked in the garage to start this business, but it's our world. You need to follow along.
Except for Hobby Lobby, it's God's world and we need to follow that.
Guessing what's going on
Megan McArdle tries to find a reason for the latest exchange extension - if you tried to sign up by March 31, we'll give you just a little more time.
So again, here's the really worrying scenario: The demographics haven't budged, or have only barely improved from earlier months. The White House knows that means that big premium increases are in the offing for 2015, and they're hoping to head them off at least temporarily with this delay. Extending open enrollment, which is essentially what they're doing, would then be a desperate play to get more young, healthy customers into the exchanges, and perhaps to make it a bit harder for insurers to raise rates. In some states, insurers have to file preliminary rate increases in May. And thanks to this latest extension, they won't have final data to back up any requests for a premium hike.
So again, here's the really worrying scenario: The demographics haven't budged, or have only barely improved from earlier months. The White House knows that means that big premium increases are in the offing for 2015, and they're hoping to head them off at least temporarily with this delay. Extending open enrollment, which is essentially what they're doing, would then be a desperate play to get more young, healthy customers into the exchanges, and perhaps to make it a bit harder for insurers to raise rates. In some states, insurers have to file preliminary rate increases in May. And thanks to this latest extension, they won't have final data to back up any requests for a premium hike.
Another story to share
When did the Koch Brothers buy the New York Times?
Here's a column about the troubles with Obamacare.
Previously, our family deductible totaled $13,600 for outpatient care and $6,600 for hospital care (with a maximum combined out-of-pocket cost of $13,600). Under our new plan, we have a deductible of $10,000 (and an out-of-pocket maximum of $12,700). In both cases, having deductibles that high means this is largely insurance to make sure that we don’t go bankrupt if we become very ill. Yes, the new plan has more coverage, including pediatric vision. But we don’t have children, and I’d trade coverage for things like substance abuse treatment and mental health in return for lower premiums.
I thought all the stories of higher rates and higher deductibles were inventions of the Koch Brothers.
Sometime give Rachel Maddow a copy of today's Times.
Here's a column about the troubles with Obamacare.
Previously, our family deductible totaled $13,600 for outpatient care and $6,600 for hospital care (with a maximum combined out-of-pocket cost of $13,600). Under our new plan, we have a deductible of $10,000 (and an out-of-pocket maximum of $12,700). In both cases, having deductibles that high means this is largely insurance to make sure that we don’t go bankrupt if we become very ill. Yes, the new plan has more coverage, including pediatric vision. But we don’t have children, and I’d trade coverage for things like substance abuse treatment and mental health in return for lower premiums.
I thought all the stories of higher rates and higher deductibles were inventions of the Koch Brothers.
Sometime give Rachel Maddow a copy of today's Times.
He's already squealing
A great day in the Iowa Senate race Tuesday.
A Republican candidate put out a great ad.
The Democratic candidate stepped in a farm mess.
Think the Iowa public will remember in November?
A Republican candidate put out a great ad.
The Democratic candidate stepped in a farm mess.
Think the Iowa public will remember in November?
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
End it; don't defend it
What's the winning strategy for 2014?
End Obamacare
or
Defend Obamacare?
Democrats are in a fix trying to fix the law.
If you’re a Democrat, you can’t run against the law full bore; there’s too much soundbite material there for the GOP to use against the rest of the party and it’s too grave an admission of misjudgment on your own part. If Mary Landrieu was too stupid not to oppose a paradigm-shifting boondoggle when she had the chance in 2010, she’s too stupid to go back to the Senate. So now she has to muddle through with some “mend it, don’t end it” nonsense about how the law’s principles were and are sound.
End Obamacare
or
Defend Obamacare?
Democrats are in a fix trying to fix the law.
If you’re a Democrat, you can’t run against the law full bore; there’s too much soundbite material there for the GOP to use against the rest of the party and it’s too grave an admission of misjudgment on your own part. If Mary Landrieu was too stupid not to oppose a paradigm-shifting boondoggle when she had the chance in 2010, she’s too stupid to go back to the Senate. So now she has to muddle through with some “mend it, don’t end it” nonsense about how the law’s principles were and are sound.
These people need a hobby
National Review offers the best of the bad signs about the Supreme Court Tuesday.
But somebody should work on bacon-flavored pills, stat.
But somebody should work on bacon-flavored pills, stat.
Assistance for Wal-Mart
Liberals fuss about Wal-Mart employees needing to use state benefits since the salaries are too low, in their opinion.
Turns out Wal-Mart depends on food stamps for more than helping employees.
Food stamp purchases help their shareholders.
There are oodles of things Wal-Mart is fearful of, from Fed interest-rate policy to climate change, but here’s the specific language on benefits: “changes in the amount of payments made under the Supplement Nutrition Assistance Plan and other public assistance plans (and) changes in the eligibility requirements of public assistance plans.” (Yes, Wal-Mart’s lawyers got the name of the program wrong — it’s the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.)
The latter language could reflect both the change in the food-stamp program as well as the ongoing debate over whether Congress should renew extended jobless benefits that lapsed at the end of December.
If you like these government programs, you're helping Wal-Mart make money.
Turns out Wal-Mart depends on food stamps for more than helping employees.
Food stamp purchases help their shareholders.
There are oodles of things Wal-Mart is fearful of, from Fed interest-rate policy to climate change, but here’s the specific language on benefits: “changes in the amount of payments made under the Supplement Nutrition Assistance Plan and other public assistance plans (and) changes in the eligibility requirements of public assistance plans.” (Yes, Wal-Mart’s lawyers got the name of the program wrong — it’s the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.)
The latter language could reflect both the change in the food-stamp program as well as the ongoing debate over whether Congress should renew extended jobless benefits that lapsed at the end of December.
If you like these government programs, you're helping Wal-Mart make money.
Democrats' slippery slope
Virginia remains without a budget.
The radio waves talk of "bringing our money from Washington" and expanding Medicaid.
I think Democrats are talking themselves into a trap.
It's only a small step from "bring our money back" to "why send so much in the first place?"
When you make Washington money "our money" instead of magical presents that Democrats can bestow, people can think like it's their money.
They don't like wasting it.
They don't like giving it away for nothing that benefits them.
Keep our money out of Washington in the first place.
The radio waves talk of "bringing our money from Washington" and expanding Medicaid.
I think Democrats are talking themselves into a trap.
It's only a small step from "bring our money back" to "why send so much in the first place?"
When you make Washington money "our money" instead of magical presents that Democrats can bestow, people can think like it's their money.
They don't like wasting it.
They don't like giving it away for nothing that benefits them.
Keep our money out of Washington in the first place.
Monday, March 24, 2014
Grumble, grumble, grumble
Just in time for the Walking Dead season finale, I found Hot Air's weekly grumble about the show.
I like the cannibal theory.
Although they might be saving that for the Season 5 opener.
It will be hard waiting months for a new grumble post.
I like the cannibal theory.
Although they might be saving that for the Season 5 opener.
It will be hard waiting months for a new grumble post.
Prepare for the flood
Glenn Beck saw an advance copy of "Noah" this weekend.
It didn't float his boat.
It’s a $100 million disaster. That’s what it is. They just don’t know what to do… I wish I could have brought different news to you, but I can’t. And I appreciate the people at Paramount understanding because I did talk to them after. It was a really uncomfortable 20 minutes afterwards. He was in there pitching. I wish I can, but I can’t. And I’m sorry. Next time – please invite me again and hopefully it will be a good movie.
Wonder what other critics will say.
It didn't float his boat.
It’s a $100 million disaster. That’s what it is. They just don’t know what to do… I wish I could have brought different news to you, but I can’t. And I appreciate the people at Paramount understanding because I did talk to them after. It was a really uncomfortable 20 minutes afterwards. He was in there pitching. I wish I can, but I can’t. And I’m sorry. Next time – please invite me again and hopefully it will be a good movie.
Wonder what other critics will say.
If you like your cave, you can keep your cave
Via Ace, the story of where federal retiree paperwork is stored.
An old mine in Pennsylvania.
Information still processed by hand.
Wonder why the Obamacare exchanges have struggled?
An old mine in Pennsylvania.
Information still processed by hand.
Wonder why the Obamacare exchanges have struggled?
Off your Hobby horse
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Spring is coming
Pat in Shreveport sees spring coming - pollen on the car.
Looking forward to that Louisiana weather heading our way.
Looking forward to that Louisiana weather heading our way.
Spreading the real word
DaTech Guy catches the media spreading the truth about the afterlife.
While the various reactions in comments are interesting, particularly the volume of comments that have been pulled at the Guardian, what’s really eye catching is what these stories have done. The Francis worshiping media without realizing it has advanced two important points that are the backbone of Christian belief:
While the various reactions in comments are interesting, particularly the volume of comments that have been pulled at the Guardian, what’s really eye catching is what these stories have done. The Francis worshiping media without realizing it has advanced two important points that are the backbone of Christian belief:
1. Any sin no matter how horrible is forgivable if one repents
2. Hell is real and those who don’t repent are going there.
Saturday, March 22, 2014
Walking Dead or Living Cavaliers?
Remember when you knew the Sweet Sixteen went 60 Minutes came on the air?
The addition of TNT, TBS and TruTV to the tournament coverage rotation has meant prime time Sunday night games the past few years.
Sunday, that means fans of basketball and Walking Dead will have to choose.
Fortunately, Virginia's game against Memphis is scheduled to start 20 minutes before Walking Dead.
Second games never start on time.
You can check in on the first half during commercial breaks, and catch the whole second half after the zombies finish their time on AMC.
The addition of TNT, TBS and TruTV to the tournament coverage rotation has meant prime time Sunday night games the past few years.
Sunday, that means fans of basketball and Walking Dead will have to choose.
Fortunately, Virginia's game against Memphis is scheduled to start 20 minutes before Walking Dead.
Second games never start on time.
You can check in on the first half during commercial breaks, and catch the whole second half after the zombies finish their time on AMC.
How green is your corruption
Powerline goes back to the Washington Post's Keystone pipeline story, looking at the true motivation behind the story.
And a better angle on the story - except it hurts liberal interests.
Green” energy is also controversial because it has been used to enrich government cronies. Let’s take, for instance, the billionaire Tom Steyer. Steyer has made much of his fortune by using his government connections to secure support for uneconomic “green” energy projects that have profited him, to the detriment of consumers and taxpayers. See, for example, here, here, here, here, here, here and here. As is explained here, Tom Steyer is a bitter opponent of the Keystone Pipeline. His financial interests, in “green” energy and perhaps also in pre-pipeline oil sources like BP, stand to benefit if Keystone is killed.
Haven’t heard much about Tom Steyer, you say? Maybe that’s because he isn’t heavily involved in politics. Heh–just kidding. Steyer, as you probably know, is one of the biggest donors to the Democratic Party and its candidates. This year, he has pledged to contribute $100 million to the campaigns of Democratic candidates, as long as they toe the line on environmental issues–which includes, presumably, taxpayer support for “green” energy and opposition to Keystone.
So the Post could have written a very different story about the Keystone Pipeline. The Post could have written that opposition to the pipeline is being funded in large part by a billionaire who has a personal financial interest in the pipeline not being built. And that’s not all! The billionaire is a political crony who has used his connections in Washington to get rich and to fleece consumers and taxpayers. Now, with Keystone, he is doing it again! How is that for a story that would “stir and inflame public debate in this election year”?
And a better angle on the story - except it hurts liberal interests.
Green” energy is also controversial because it has been used to enrich government cronies. Let’s take, for instance, the billionaire Tom Steyer. Steyer has made much of his fortune by using his government connections to secure support for uneconomic “green” energy projects that have profited him, to the detriment of consumers and taxpayers. See, for example, here, here, here, here, here, here and here. As is explained here, Tom Steyer is a bitter opponent of the Keystone Pipeline. His financial interests, in “green” energy and perhaps also in pre-pipeline oil sources like BP, stand to benefit if Keystone is killed.
Haven’t heard much about Tom Steyer, you say? Maybe that’s because he isn’t heavily involved in politics. Heh–just kidding. Steyer, as you probably know, is one of the biggest donors to the Democratic Party and its candidates. This year, he has pledged to contribute $100 million to the campaigns of Democratic candidates, as long as they toe the line on environmental issues–which includes, presumably, taxpayer support for “green” energy and opposition to Keystone.
So the Post could have written a very different story about the Keystone Pipeline. The Post could have written that opposition to the pipeline is being funded in large part by a billionaire who has a personal financial interest in the pipeline not being built. And that’s not all! The billionaire is a political crony who has used his connections in Washington to get rich and to fleece consumers and taxpayers. Now, with Keystone, he is doing it again! How is that for a story that would “stir and inflame public debate in this election year”?
Know your tax penalties
Matt Drudge's tweet from Friday sent a White House aide and liberal commentators into attack mode.
Too bad they didn't know what they are talking about.
If you are an individual business person, you pay estimated taxes instead of having taxes withheld.
It's based on prior year income, but you've got to plan to pay at least 90 percent of what's owed or there can be a penalty.
As an experienced taxpayer, Drudge noted his estimated payment for the first quarter of 2014 included his projected extra tax due to Obamacare.
Doubt he would get a waiver next winter if he underpaid his estimated taxes.
Too bad the White House aide and commentators don't understand paying estimated taxes.
It might help them understand the problems conservatives have with the law.
Too bad they didn't know what they are talking about.
If you are an individual business person, you pay estimated taxes instead of having taxes withheld.
It's based on prior year income, but you've got to plan to pay at least 90 percent of what's owed or there can be a penalty.
As an experienced taxpayer, Drudge noted his estimated payment for the first quarter of 2014 included his projected extra tax due to Obamacare.
Doubt he would get a waiver next winter if he underpaid his estimated taxes.
Too bad the White House aide and commentators don't understand paying estimated taxes.
It might help them understand the problems conservatives have with the law.
Facebook quote of the week
Bus trip to PA to find that damn groundhog and give him a oneway trip to meet his maker. Anyone else want to go? Need a headcount by Tuesday!
Drifting to the top
My ploy of picking the highest seeds to win each game just might work.
Upsets get the attention, but 24 higher seeds won in the round of 64.
Our CBS Sports bracket shows the highest score you can get with your remaining picks. My score is highest now, despite five players getting more right in this round.
You can pick more early upsets, but if VCU loses now, your bracket is in deep trouble.
Upsets get the attention, but 24 higher seeds won in the round of 64.
Our CBS Sports bracket shows the highest score you can get with your remaining picks. My score is highest now, despite five players getting more right in this round.
You can pick more early upsets, but if VCU loses now, your bracket is in deep trouble.
Friday, March 21, 2014
Swamped in the Atlantic
Powerline caught a good story about Duke's Coach K wondering how the Atlantic 10 got six teams in the tournament.
Looks like he should have been more worried about the Atlantic Sun.
Looks like he should have been more worried about the Atlantic Sun.
Weekend watchdog
Sure, somebody somewhere still has a chance at a perfect bracket.
Probably not you.
And probably not for long.
Thirty-two more teams take the court Friday as the second round closes Friday. Duke meets Mercer on CBS to open the day's play. Former Big 12 foes Baylor and Nebraska play on TruTV at 12:30 p.m. and New Mexico-Stanford tips at 1:30 p.m. on TBS. West Region top-seed Arizona goes against Weber State on TNT at 2 p.m.
Virginia has a late slot for its tournament opener, playing Coastal Carolina on TBS around 9:25 p.m.
Saturday's slate starts with top-seed Florida against Pittsburgh at noon on CBS. It's Louisville-Saint Louis at 2:45 and Texas facing Michigan at 5:15 p.m. Oregon goes against Wisconsin at 7:45 p.m.
TNT offers upstart North Dakota State against San Diego State at 6 p.m., followed by Harvard-Michigan State. Syracuse meets Dayton on TBS at 7 p.m. and former Big East rivals battle at 9:30 p.m. when Villanova takes on Connecticut.
CBS has three more games Sunday, while TruTV picks up a contest at 7:30 p.m. TNT's twinbill gets going at 6 p.m. and there's more games on TBS at 7 p.m.
And don't forget the NIT. ESPN has Louisiana Tech and Georgia Saturday at 11 a.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. Clemson heads to Illinois.
The women's tournament tips off Saturday at 11 a.m. on ESPN2. ESPN will show top-seed Notre Dame-Robert Morris at 1:30 p.m. Play Sunday starts at 12:30 p.m. on ESPN2, moving to ESPN at 3 p.m. Connecticut plays Prairie View A&M at 8 p.m. while ESPN2 has regional action.
The Wizards head west this weekend, facing the Lakers Friday at 10:30 p.m. on Comcast and the Nuggets Sunday at 5 p.m.
NASCAR visits Fontana Sunday at 3 p.m. on Fox while the Nationwide racers hit the track Saturday at 5 p.m.
NBC has the Arnold Palmer Invitational Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m.
Comcast offers the Blues and Flyers Saturday at 1 p.m. and Capitals' visit to San Jose at 10:30 p.m. The Red Wings host the Wild Sunday at 7:30 p.m. on NBC Sports network.
The Hockey East semifinals will be on NBC Sports network Friday, with UMass-Lowell against Notre Dame at 5 and New Hampshire facing Providence at 8 p.m. The final will be Saturday at 7 p.m.
On the college diamond, Tennessee hosts Auburn Saturday at 4 p.m. on Comcast while Florida Atlantic heads to Rice on MASN Saturday at 2 p.m.
The Galaxy take on Real Salt Lake on NBC Sports network Saturday at 4 p.m.
There's three Premier League games Saturday on NBC Sports network, starting at 8:45 a.m. when Chelsea faces Arsenal. It's Cardiff City-Liverpool at 11 a.m. followed by West Ham United battling Manchester United. Tottenham Hotspur meets Southampton at 9:30 a.m. and Aston Villa plays Stoke City at noon.
ESPN has the NCAA wrestling tournament semifinals Friday at 8 p.m. and finals Saturday at 8 p.m.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Pick of the brackets
I've tired of picking the NCAA tournament brackets.
I find it's easier to enjoy the games when you're not frustrated your picks aren't doing well.
Like how about that North Dakota State.
I did enter one challenge - Bearing Drift.
I let the site pick top seeds to win each game - giving me a Final Four of all number one seeds.
Through 12 games, it puts me in the lower half the challenge.
But I still could get a prize as the best bracket outside the Bearing Drift contributor world.
That's a prize to treasure.
I find it's easier to enjoy the games when you're not frustrated your picks aren't doing well.
Like how about that North Dakota State.
I did enter one challenge - Bearing Drift.
I let the site pick top seeds to win each game - giving me a Final Four of all number one seeds.
Through 12 games, it puts me in the lower half the challenge.
But I still could get a prize as the best bracket outside the Bearing Drift contributor world.
That's a prize to treasure.
Going where the votes are
Roger Simon has good things to say about Rand Paul's trip to Berkeley.
Republicans need more of this, in fact they need a bombardment of creative plans. Change the dialogue. The administration has nothing and can have nothing because “liberalism” in its modern form is bankrupt. Everybody knows that. They don’t even make an effort anymore beyond some dopey commercials with movie stars and basketball players. Even Obamacare may not have to be repealed. It hardly exists now and may simply disappear.
Republicans need more of this, in fact they need a bombardment of creative plans. Change the dialogue. The administration has nothing and can have nothing because “liberalism” in its modern form is bankrupt. Everybody knows that. They don’t even make an effort anymore beyond some dopey commercials with movie stars and basketball players. Even Obamacare may not have to be repealed. It hardly exists now and may simply disappear.
No bypassing this problem
Charlottesville can't figure out how to deal with traffic on 29 North.
A bypass that has been discussed for years appears dead.
If there's a place where flying cars would be useful, it's Charlottesville.
That would make people in Lynchburg happier.
Time for them to improve the roads toward Richmond and bypass Charlottesville entirely.
A bypass that has been discussed for years appears dead.
If there's a place where flying cars would be useful, it's Charlottesville.
That would make people in Lynchburg happier.
Time for them to improve the roads toward Richmond and bypass Charlottesville entirely.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Fruving on a Wednesday afternoon
I took the youngest food shopping today.
We bought Pepsi.
Mountain Dew.
Chips.
Krispy Kreme Doughnuts.
Fruit Roll-ups (they count as fruit, right?)
As we checked out, I think I heard a muffled cry of anguish from Michelle Obama in Washington.
We bought Pepsi.
Mountain Dew.
Chips.
Krispy Kreme Doughnuts.
Fruit Roll-ups (they count as fruit, right?)
As we checked out, I think I heard a muffled cry of anguish from Michelle Obama in Washington.
Obama dislikes Virginia, Delaware
President Obama has announced his NCAA bracket.
His next dog will be named "Spot" and next cat "Fluffy."
He makes the trendy picks, going with Michigan State.
Which means he wants Delaware to lose this week and Virginia to lose next week.
Why does he hate these schools?
Let's go Blue Hens and Cavaliers.
His next dog will be named "Spot" and next cat "Fluffy."
He makes the trendy picks, going with Michigan State.
Which means he wants Delaware to lose this week and Virginia to lose next week.
Why does he hate these schools?
Let's go Blue Hens and Cavaliers.
You owe-a in Iowa
The Hill's story on possible Obamacare insurance premium hikes holds this for the last two paragraphs.
Political operatives will be watching premium increases this summer, most notably in states where there are contested Senate races.
In Iowa, which hosts the first presidential caucus in the nation and has a competitive Senate race this year, rates are expected to rise 100 percent on the exchange and by double digits on the larger, employer-based market, according to a recent article in the Business Record.
Price hikes in Iowa.
How important could that be ahead of the 2016 Caucuses?
I can't wait to see Hillary explain this in an Iowa cornfield.
Political operatives will be watching premium increases this summer, most notably in states where there are contested Senate races.
In Iowa, which hosts the first presidential caucus in the nation and has a competitive Senate race this year, rates are expected to rise 100 percent on the exchange and by double digits on the larger, employer-based market, according to a recent article in the Business Record.
Price hikes in Iowa.
How important could that be ahead of the 2016 Caucuses?
I can't wait to see Hillary explain this in an Iowa cornfield.
Donate your Obamacare savings to Obama
Democrats are firing out fundraising emails daily, asking for help to sign up more people before Obamacare before the March 31 deadline.
I think they have missed an opportunity.
If people have saved by signing up for Obamacare, you should ask them to donate the savings to this Obama campaign.
If they now have extra money, here's a use for it.
Maybe the fundraising struggles come since so few have saved - and so many have to pay more.
I think they have missed an opportunity.
If people have saved by signing up for Obamacare, you should ask them to donate the savings to this Obama campaign.
If they now have extra money, here's a use for it.
Maybe the fundraising struggles come since so few have saved - and so many have to pay more.
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Buy or we will deport you
President Obama's current pitch to Hispanics - don't worry about answers about family members here illegally. You can trust us.
“Well, the main thing for people to know is that any information you get, you know, asked with respect to buying insurance, does not have anything to do with … the rules governing immigration,” Obama said. “And you know, you can qualify if you’re a legal resident, if you are … legally present in the United States. You know, if you have a family where some people are citizens or legally here, and others are not documented, the immigration people will never get that information.”
This part of the government won't give information to another.
(Don't ask the Tea Party for their opinion on this.)
How about next year?
What happens if not enough people buy health insurance through the exchanges?
Will they be deporting you if you didn't give your money to the government?
If soft sell doesn't work, do you turn to the real hard sell?
“Well, the main thing for people to know is that any information you get, you know, asked with respect to buying insurance, does not have anything to do with … the rules governing immigration,” Obama said. “And you know, you can qualify if you’re a legal resident, if you are … legally present in the United States. You know, if you have a family where some people are citizens or legally here, and others are not documented, the immigration people will never get that information.”
This part of the government won't give information to another.
(Don't ask the Tea Party for their opinion on this.)
How about next year?
What happens if not enough people buy health insurance through the exchanges?
Will they be deporting you if you didn't give your money to the government?
If soft sell doesn't work, do you turn to the real hard sell?
Ask a pilot
Wired gives a pilot space to explain what might have happened with the Malaysian plane.
For me, the loss of transponders and communications makes perfect sense in a fire. And there most likely was an electrical fire. In the case of a fire, the first response is to pull the main busses and restore circuits one by one until you have isolated the bad one. If they pulled the busses, the plane would go silent. It probably was a serious event and the flight crew was occupied with controlling the plane and trying to fight the fire. Aviate, navigate, and lastly, communicate is the mantra in such situations.
For me, the loss of transponders and communications makes perfect sense in a fire. And there most likely was an electrical fire. In the case of a fire, the first response is to pull the main busses and restore circuits one by one until you have isolated the bad one. If they pulled the busses, the plane would go silent. It probably was a serious event and the flight crew was occupied with controlling the plane and trying to fight the fire. Aviate, navigate, and lastly, communicate is the mantra in such situations.
Toughness of the Obama team
Powerline isn't impressed by the sanctions announced by President Obama Monday.
When the official announces that the Team of Nitwits expects the sanctions will be effective, do you suppose that they expect them to result in the restoration of Crimea to Ukraine? The stated expectation is ambiguous, but I doubt even they believe that. Rather, they will be “effective” in a Pickwickian sense. They will make those announcing them feel better.
When you think the Koch brothers run your conservative opposition, it means sense to target a few rich Russians.
Except both assumptions are wrong.
The world doesn't work that way.
When the official announces that the Team of Nitwits expects the sanctions will be effective, do you suppose that they expect them to result in the restoration of Crimea to Ukraine? The stated expectation is ambiguous, but I doubt even they believe that. Rather, they will be “effective” in a Pickwickian sense. They will make those announcing them feel better.
When you think the Koch brothers run your conservative opposition, it means sense to target a few rich Russians.
Except both assumptions are wrong.
The world doesn't work that way.
Monday, March 17, 2014
Coming to your state
Poor Rachel Maddow.
She's going to be busy all year long chasing Americans for Prosperity ads about people unhappy with Obamacare.
First, it was Michigan.
Now, Arkansas.
The new ad starts with a woman sharing news her health insurance plan will end in December.
That's what the letter from the insurance company says.
The Maddow blog crows that no one has lost their health insurance.
Yet.
After the letters went out - and pressure from conservatives - Arkansas backtracked.
The lady can keep her insurance - for a few more years.
This is something to cheer?
If her policy was sub-par, why celebrate its continuation?
If it's good enough, why was it targeted by Obamacare?
Americans for Prosperity has found a great theme for Election 2014.
Every state has numerous people who have been negatively impacted by Obamacare.
Some in major ways, some in minor ways. All impacted more than fans of the law ever mentioned in 2009 and 2010.
All impacted in ways conservatives predicted in 2009 and 2010.
She's going to be busy all year long chasing Americans for Prosperity ads about people unhappy with Obamacare.
First, it was Michigan.
Now, Arkansas.
The new ad starts with a woman sharing news her health insurance plan will end in December.
That's what the letter from the insurance company says.
The Maddow blog crows that no one has lost their health insurance.
Yet.
After the letters went out - and pressure from conservatives - Arkansas backtracked.
The lady can keep her insurance - for a few more years.
This is something to cheer?
If her policy was sub-par, why celebrate its continuation?
If it's good enough, why was it targeted by Obamacare?
Americans for Prosperity has found a great theme for Election 2014.
Every state has numerous people who have been negatively impacted by Obamacare.
Some in major ways, some in minor ways. All impacted more than fans of the law ever mentioned in 2009 and 2010.
All impacted in ways conservatives predicted in 2009 and 2010.
Sunday, March 16, 2014
Lessons of Obama's bracket
Ace isn't amused by news of the latest NCAA bracket by President Obama.
We just need to use lessons from picking a bracket to understand Obamacare.
We just need to use lessons from picking a bracket to understand Obamacare.
- No matter how you try, you can't get everything right.
- It's out of your control.
- Expect the unexpected.
- Don't let emotions rule your decisions.
- It's not your field of expertise. You really don't know what you're talking about, even if you think you do.
- Even the experts are just making informed hunches.
Low-fatwa
Paco likes the news about a Saudi cleric issuing a fatwa against all you can eat buffets.
I'll stay low-fatwa and enjoy my buffets.
I'll stay low-fatwa and enjoy my buffets.
What do the spies know?
Some interesting speculation on the Malaysia Air disappearance - does our spy agency know what happened?
Or does China's spy agency know?
You don't usually track all planes, or know which ones are doing something out of the ordinary.
But maybe the spy agencies do.
And don't want anybody to know they have the capability to find where this plane went.
As the days pass in this mystery, you look at the technology - what's possible to find this plane?
Probably more than we know now.
Or does China's spy agency know?
You don't usually track all planes, or know which ones are doing something out of the ordinary.
But maybe the spy agencies do.
And don't want anybody to know they have the capability to find where this plane went.
As the days pass in this mystery, you look at the technology - what's possible to find this plane?
Probably more than we know now.
Waiting for the doom to hit
Powerline enjoyed the New York Times story on Democratic fears.
Candidates want support and money from the Obama team.
And fear the wave the Republican money bashing Obamacare.
Glad to see them finally face reality.
Candidates want support and money from the Obama team.
And fear the wave the Republican money bashing Obamacare.
Glad to see them finally face reality.
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Don't let the snow fall down on me
They don't want to hear about six or more inches of snow Sunday night.
The view of Canada
Friday, March 14, 2014
Add some spice to Obamacare
Powerline wonders if the "angry mom" ad will work for Obamacare.
Maybe if they got some help from the whining moms of the Old Spice commercial.
Maybe if they got some help from the whining moms of the Old Spice commercial.
Show me the fixes
Democrats are in a fix.
How to fix problems with Obamacare while keeping Republicans from gutting their dream.
If they do nothing, they will likely lose in November.
If they do something, they are still likely to lose - unhappy supporters will be less likely to help in the fall.
Maybe they can gather an "Obamacare death panel" to put it out of their misery.
How to fix problems with Obamacare while keeping Republicans from gutting their dream.
If they do nothing, they will likely lose in November.
If they do something, they are still likely to lose - unhappy supporters will be less likely to help in the fall.
Maybe they can gather an "Obamacare death panel" to put it out of their misery.
Weekend watchdog
Who's going to play where?
Who has the best seed?
And the easier path to the Final Four?
Some questions will be answered - and more speculation will rise - when the 68-team NCAA tournament field gets announced Sunday at 6 p.m. on CBS.
As top seed in the ACC tournament, Virginia opens play Friday at noon on the ACC network against Florida State. Conference newcomer Pittsburgh meets North Carolina at 2 p.m., and fellow transfer Syacuse faces North Carolina State at 7 p.m. Duke and Clemson close the action at 9:30 p.m.
Semifinals are Saturday at 1:30 and 4 p.m., with the final Sunday at 1 p.m.
The Conference USA title game will be Saturday at 11:30 a.m. on CBS, followed by a pair of semifinals in the Big Ten. The best of the Mountain West meet at 6 p.m.
Before the field is announced, CBS has the Atlantic 10 championship at 1 p.m. and the Big Ten title tilt at 3:30 p.m.
FoxSports1 covers the Big East semifinals Friday at 7 and 9:30 p.m. and final Saturday at 8:30 p.m. The Pac-12 has a semifinal Friday at 11:30 p.m. The tournament final will be Saturday at 6 p.m.
The new American Athletic Conference has its first championship game Saturday at 6 p.m. on ESPN, and the best of Big 12 play at 9 p.m. The American semifinals are Friday at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. on ESPN2.
ESPN2 features five championship games Saturday. America East starts the day at 11:30 a.m., then it's the SWAC at 4:30 p.m. and MAC at 6:30 p.m. The Southland crowns its champion at 8:30 p.m., and the Big West has the nightcap at 10:30 p.m.
The Sun Belt winner will claim its berth Sunday at 1 p.m.
ABC carries the SEC tournament semifinals Saturday at 1 and 3 p.m., with the final on ESPN Sunday at 3:15 p.m
MASN has semifinals of the Big 12 tournament Friday at 7 and 9:30 p.m.
NBC Sports network has the Atlantic 10 quarterfinals Friday starting at noon.
Getting ready for the women's tournament, Comcast carries the CAA tournament semifinals Saturday at noon and 2:30 p.m. The final is Sunday at noon.
The Wizards visit the Magic Friday at 7 p.m. on Comcast, and the Nets come calling Saturday at 7 p.m. ABC offers the Rockets and Heat Sunday at 3:30 p.m.
NASCAR visits Thunder Valley, with Fox covering the Sprint Cup race Sunday at 1 p.m. ESPN2 has the Nationwide race Saturday at 2:15 p.m.
The Australian Grand Prix will be Sunday at 2 a.m. on NBC Sports network. There's qualifying Saturday at 2 a.m.
The Orioles face the Yankees in spring training play Saturday at 1 p.m. on MASN. The Tigers tangle with the Nationals Sunday at 1 p.m.
Texas Tech meets Baylor on the college diamond Saturday at 1 p.m. on FoxSports1.
NBC offers the Flyers and Penguins Sunday at noon. The Capitals host the Maple Leafs Sunday at 3 p.m. while NBC Sports network brings the Red Wings and Blackhawks Sunday at 7:30 p.m.
The PGA tour's Valspar Championship will be on NBC Saturday and Sunday at 3 p.m.
There's three games in the Premier League Saturday on NBC Sports network. Hull City faces Manchester City at 8:45 a.m., then it's Sunderland-Crystal Palace at 11 a.m. and Chelsea clashes with Aston Villa at 1:30 p.m. Manchester United tangles with Liverpool at 9:30 p.m. before Tottenham Hotspur meets Arsenal at noon.
Toronto faces Seattle in MLS action Saturday on NBC Sports network.
The Paralympic Games in Sochi close Sunday at 3:30 p.m. on NBC Sports network.
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Wait your turn
Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders brought Canadian health expert to town, hoping to boost his side.
You have plenty of time to think up one-liners when patients wait 18 weeks for an appointment.
In the Fraser Institute's annual report, “Waiting Your Turn: Wait Times for Health Care in Canada,” published October, 28, 2013, the wait-time for in 2013 rose to 18.2 weeks, three days longer than in 2012. Twenty years ago, the average wait time for treatment in Canada was 9.3 weeks. In the report, specific scenarios were described, such as waits to have surgery, now reaching over 39 weeks, to appointments for neurological consults, now an average of 17.4 weeks. Thankfully, the shortest wait-time was for cancer patients needing treatment, now only 3,5 weeks.
The report also estimates that on average, one out of every 34 Canadians “may be in pain, off work, or suffering from depression as they wait their turn for treatment.”
You have plenty of time to think up one-liners when patients wait 18 weeks for an appointment.
In the Fraser Institute's annual report, “Waiting Your Turn: Wait Times for Health Care in Canada,” published October, 28, 2013, the wait-time for in 2013 rose to 18.2 weeks, three days longer than in 2012. Twenty years ago, the average wait time for treatment in Canada was 9.3 weeks. In the report, specific scenarios were described, such as waits to have surgery, now reaching over 39 weeks, to appointments for neurological consults, now an average of 17.4 weeks. Thankfully, the shortest wait-time was for cancer patients needing treatment, now only 3,5 weeks.
The report also estimates that on average, one out of every 34 Canadians “may be in pain, off work, or suffering from depression as they wait their turn for treatment.”
That sinking feeling
Democrats sure are bothered by the special election loss in Florida Tuesday.
Republicans seem to think they’ve struck political gold, but Democrats aren’t even sure how to interpret the loss. A veteran Democratic fundraiser called the loss a “double whammy,” hurting the party with major donors and energizing Republicans. Some senior members of the party say the defeat in a district President Barack Obama won twice means nothing, and Democrats should not fret. Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-La.), who is likely to have a tight race in November, attributed Sink’s defeat to flood insurance legislation, which played a minor role compared to Jolly’s nearly singular focus on the health care law.
The special election - being by itself - creates more attention.
Bad thing for Democrats.
Republicans seem to think they’ve struck political gold, but Democrats aren’t even sure how to interpret the loss. A veteran Democratic fundraiser called the loss a “double whammy,” hurting the party with major donors and energizing Republicans. Some senior members of the party say the defeat in a district President Barack Obama won twice means nothing, and Democrats should not fret. Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-La.), who is likely to have a tight race in November, attributed Sink’s defeat to flood insurance legislation, which played a minor role compared to Jolly’s nearly singular focus on the health care law.
The special election - being by itself - creates more attention.
Bad thing for Democrats.
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Prioritize with my priorities
Hot Air brought attention to this interview with President Obama, giving budgeting advise to those shopping for Obamacare policies.
He doesn't directly say to cancel your phone or cable - but implies health insurance should be a priority.
Just in case.
Even if the math doesn't add up most years.
Let’s take a look at that $300 a month, too. Assuming that we’re talking about a family of four, that would force the family to spend $3,600 a year. While that might be money well spent in the case of catastrophe, it’s a bad investment on several levels otherwise. If both kids break a bone, it might run them $500 each to get treated, or perhaps even a thousand each if they go to an emergency room. If they get the flu, perhaps another $200 each for a doctor visit. Throw in wellness checks for everyone at $250 each, and we’re talking about $3400 in medical care, $200 less than their premiums.
But wait! In most plans of that cost, the family will have to spend thousands of dollars in deductibles first for everything but the wellness checks — so the only benefit will be covering the $1000 those cost. In this example, the family that normally would have spent $3400 out of pocket in that year will now spend $5,800.
If catastrophic hospital stays are the concern, focus on that. Not the high premiums and high deductibles for everyday life - which mean cutting back on what makes everyday enjoyable.
He doesn't directly say to cancel your phone or cable - but implies health insurance should be a priority.
Just in case.
Even if the math doesn't add up most years.
Let’s take a look at that $300 a month, too. Assuming that we’re talking about a family of four, that would force the family to spend $3,600 a year. While that might be money well spent in the case of catastrophe, it’s a bad investment on several levels otherwise. If both kids break a bone, it might run them $500 each to get treated, or perhaps even a thousand each if they go to an emergency room. If they get the flu, perhaps another $200 each for a doctor visit. Throw in wellness checks for everyone at $250 each, and we’re talking about $3400 in medical care, $200 less than their premiums.
But wait! In most plans of that cost, the family will have to spend thousands of dollars in deductibles first for everything but the wellness checks — so the only benefit will be covering the $1000 those cost. In this example, the family that normally would have spent $3400 out of pocket in that year will now spend $5,800.
If catastrophic hospital stays are the concern, focus on that. Not the high premiums and high deductibles for everyday life - which mean cutting back on what makes everyday enjoyable.
Ride the wave
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Have a holly Jolly evening
If only all House races had candidates with such good names.
A Jolly evening for Republicans.
Democrats Sink.
More sinking ahead for Democrats in November.
A Jolly evening for Republicans.
Democrats Sink.
More sinking ahead for Democrats in November.
Walker, money saver
Good news for our friends in Wisconsin.
Another tax cut.
With growing tax collections now expected to give the state a $1billion budget surplus in June 2015, Walker's bill will cut property and income taxes for families and businesses, and zero out all income taxes for manufacturers in the state.
Maybe he can bring that plan to Washington.
Another tax cut.
With growing tax collections now expected to give the state a $1billion budget surplus in June 2015, Walker's bill will cut property and income taxes for families and businesses, and zero out all income taxes for manufacturers in the state.
Maybe he can bring that plan to Washington.
Hoping for change
Democrats in 2014 are hoping for change.
Change the subject from Obamacare.
Byron York doubts it will change their fortunes.
The problem is, Democrats haven't put forward any good ideas to deal with Obamacare's dilemma of higher premiums, higher deductibles, a burdensome mandate, and narrower choices of doctors, hospitals and prescription drugs. Democratic candidates say they want to fix the system, because that's what they have to say, given voter opinion, but they don't really know what to do.
So they rely on President Obama to put off the bad stuff until after the election. But for millions of Americans, the pain of Obamacare cannot be put off indefinitely. The subject can't be permanently changed. Democrats created the system that is now touching millions of American lives, and they have to live with it.
Change the subject from Obamacare.
Byron York doubts it will change their fortunes.
The problem is, Democrats haven't put forward any good ideas to deal with Obamacare's dilemma of higher premiums, higher deductibles, a burdensome mandate, and narrower choices of doctors, hospitals and prescription drugs. Democratic candidates say they want to fix the system, because that's what they have to say, given voter opinion, but they don't really know what to do.
So they rely on President Obama to put off the bad stuff until after the election. But for millions of Americans, the pain of Obamacare cannot be put off indefinitely. The subject can't be permanently changed. Democrats created the system that is now touching millions of American lives, and they have to live with it.
Too much hot air
Nice to see Senate Democrats doing their part for global warming.
All the hot air from their lousy speeches probably alters the environment.
I'm looking forward to the copies of printed speeches coming out.
All of those trees killed for climate change talk.
All the hot air from their lousy speeches probably alters the environment.
I'm looking forward to the copies of printed speeches coming out.
All of those trees killed for climate change talk.
Monday, March 10, 2014
Looking forward to a Paul future
Roger L. Simon has good things to say about Rand Paul.
It is this creativity that distinguishes Paul. He seems future oriented, unlike the rest of the potential candidates who mouth platitudes, liberal and conservative, bashing each other in the most tedious manner imaginable. Yes, the liberal side is by far more repellent, and old fashioned in ideology to the point of ridiculousness, but this does not absolve the right of the need to come up with forward-thinking solutions to the obvious American decline.
That is why Paul appeals to the young who are oriented, as they should be, toward the future. The whole Democratic Party is oriented toward the past and so are, alas, too many of the Republicans. The young see this. They’re smarter than we are. (They still have some brain cells.)
It is this creativity that distinguishes Paul. He seems future oriented, unlike the rest of the potential candidates who mouth platitudes, liberal and conservative, bashing each other in the most tedious manner imaginable. Yes, the liberal side is by far more repellent, and old fashioned in ideology to the point of ridiculousness, but this does not absolve the right of the need to come up with forward-thinking solutions to the obvious American decline.
That is why Paul appeals to the young who are oriented, as they should be, toward the future. The whole Democratic Party is oriented toward the past and so are, alas, too many of the Republicans. The young see this. They’re smarter than we are. (They still have some brain cells.)
16 days of Palin
A great idea by DaTech Guy to spread out posts on Sarah Palin's CPAC speech over 16 days.
I like it.
I like it, I do.
I like Palin and her crew.
I like it.
I like it, I do.
I like Palin and her crew.
How are you feeling, Hillary?
When looking at Hillary Clinton's chances of winning the presidency in 2016, don't forget the magic number - 69.
That's how old she'll be on Election Day.
Before leaving as Secretary of State in 2013, she was in the hospital having a blood clot checked. (Just in time to delay talking about Benghazi).
It's only natural to wonder about her health as the campaign draws near.
And her real health problem - how does she show she's healthy enough for the run.
When was the last time you saw a picture of Hillary doing something athletic?
Reagan rode horses.
Obama golfs. And golfs.
What does Hillary do besides talk?
She wants to be the historic first female president. The Democratic establishment seems on board with the thought, lending the air of inevitability.
What can trip her up?
If her health is not tip-top, another rival can use that to bust the inevitability bubble. If Joe Biden wants to run, will he show he's more fit and healthy?
Hillary can't just say she's healthy. She'll need to show it, on a daily basis for months on end, to keep her dream alive.
That's how old she'll be on Election Day.
Before leaving as Secretary of State in 2013, she was in the hospital having a blood clot checked. (Just in time to delay talking about Benghazi).
It's only natural to wonder about her health as the campaign draws near.
And her real health problem - how does she show she's healthy enough for the run.
When was the last time you saw a picture of Hillary doing something athletic?
Reagan rode horses.
Obama golfs. And golfs.
What does Hillary do besides talk?
She wants to be the historic first female president. The Democratic establishment seems on board with the thought, lending the air of inevitability.
What can trip her up?
If her health is not tip-top, another rival can use that to bust the inevitability bubble. If Joe Biden wants to run, will he show he's more fit and healthy?
Hillary can't just say she's healthy. She'll need to show it, on a daily basis for months on end, to keep her dream alive.
Sunday, March 9, 2014
What's up, doc?
Althouse wonders why so many doctors are running for office.
The New York Times attempts to answer the question.
The New York Times attempts to answer the question.
Senator Rand Paul, Republican of Kentucky and an ophthalmologist, is seen as a serious contender for his party’s presidential nomination in 2016. Candidates for the Senate this year include an obstetrician in North Carolina, a radiologist in Kansas, a liver disease specialist in Louisiana, and two other doctors in Georgia — all of them Republicans.
At least 26 more physicians are running for the House, some for re-election. In all, 20 people with medical degrees serve in Congress today, 17 in the House and three in the Senate, a number that has doubled over the last decade, according to the American Medical Association. (By contrast, a Johns Hopkins University study found that from 1960 to 2004, only 25 physicians served in either the House or the Senate.)
You've got to be smart to become a physician.
It would be nice to put the smarts for good use.
Look back at CPAC
DaTech Guy shares his quick thoughts on CPAC.
Next year, he'll bring more food.
When it's gone, he can fill the suitcase with the same weight of CPAC swag.
Next year, he'll bring more food.
When it's gone, he can fill the suitcase with the same weight of CPAC swag.
Awesome with a Capital A
It's still awesome, baby.
Just keep swimming
Our pastor closed this week's sermon with the story of Florence Chadwick, who swam from Catalina Island to the mainland in 1952.
It was two months after she had failed, stopping a half-mile off the coast she couldn't see due to the fog.
The second time, she remembered her goal.
And kept going even when the fog blocked her vision.
It was two months after she had failed, stopping a half-mile off the coast she couldn't see due to the fog.
The second time, she remembered her goal.
And kept going even when the fog blocked her vision.
Saturday, March 8, 2014
They don't like it
What's the simple explanation for Obamacare's failure to corral the uninsured into policies?
They don't like it.
I believe they are not buying it because the premium––even net of the subsidies––is too much for plans that have deductibles that are too high. Consulting firm Avalere has put the average Silver Plan deductible at $2,567 and the average Bronze Plan deductible at $4,545. People are often being asked to pay hundreds of dollars per month in premium, net of subsidies, and they don't see the value.
There are three weeks left in the open enrollment that has already afforded people the months of December, January, February, and soon to be all of March, to take a good look at Obamacare and decide whether it is a good buy for them or not.
Starting in April, when the final numbers are in, I hope we can have a meaningful conversation over how to fix the new health insurance reform law that is clearly not working.
They don't like it.
I believe they are not buying it because the premium––even net of the subsidies––is too much for plans that have deductibles that are too high. Consulting firm Avalere has put the average Silver Plan deductible at $2,567 and the average Bronze Plan deductible at $4,545. People are often being asked to pay hundreds of dollars per month in premium, net of subsidies, and they don't see the value.
There are three weeks left in the open enrollment that has already afforded people the months of December, January, February, and soon to be all of March, to take a good look at Obamacare and decide whether it is a good buy for them or not.
Starting in April, when the final numbers are in, I hope we can have a meaningful conversation over how to fix the new health insurance reform law that is clearly not working.
Facebook quote of the week
Time to whip up some BS... writing another paper for school... (counting down the days until the end of the quarter...)
Ask the uninsured
Virginia doesn't have a budget, due to the fight over Medicaid expansion.
Democratic legislators want people to talk to the uninsured about what to do.
How about talking to the uninsured about why they haven't taken advantage of the current offer?
Maybe more Medicaid won't solve that problem either.
Democratic legislators want people to talk to the uninsured about what to do.
How about talking to the uninsured about why they haven't taken advantage of the current offer?
Maybe more Medicaid won't solve that problem either.
Friday, March 7, 2014
It's Greek to me
What kind of Greeks would you like to see at the movies this weekend?
Tough Greeks in the 300?
Or funny Greeks in Mr. Peabody?
What a clash.
I did not see that coming.
Tough Greeks in the 300?
Or funny Greeks in Mr. Peabody?
What a clash.
I did not see that coming.
Weekend watchdog
Getting ready for March Madness, there might be big news at Arch Madness.
Wichita State takes a perfect 31-0 record into the Missouri Valley Conference tournament. If the Shockers advance to the final and win Sunday at 2 p.m. on CBS, they would be the first undefeated team to enter the NCAA tournament since UNLV in 1991.
Before the Shockers' possible shot at history, there's another shocker on CBS at noon - ACC front-runner Virginia bidding farewell to Maryland. The Terps will join the Big Ten next year, and that conference has the 4:30 p.m. game - Ohio State-Michigan State.
There's three games on CBS Saturday, starting at noon with Kentucky at top-ranked Florida. Connecticut travels to Louisville at 2 p.m., then it's Arizona-Oregon.
The first automatic bids for the NCAA tournament will be given Saturday on ESPN2, with the Ohio Valley contest at 7 p.m. The Big South crowns its champion at noon Sunday, followed by the Atlantic Sun at 2 p.m.
Saturday on ESPN starts with a Big 12 doubleheader, with conference champion Kansas visiting West Virginia at noon and Oklahoma State-Iowa State at 2 p.m. Missouri travels to Tennessee at 4 p.m. and Indiana meets Michigan before the GameDay crew catches the annual finale between North Carolina and Duke at 9 p.m.
It's Kent State-Akron on ESPN2 Friday at 7 p.m.. SMU meets Memphis Saturday at noon, then it's Virginia Tech against Georgia Tech. The night finishes with a pair of West Coast Conference tournament games at 9 and 11:30 p.m.
The ACC network closes the regular season with Pittsburgh at Clemson Saturday at 4 p.m. and Syracuse-Florida State Sunday at 3 p.m.
There's four games on FoxSports1 Saturday, starting at noon with St. John's clashing with Marquette. It's Georgetown-Villanova at 2 p.m. and Seton Hall against Butler at 4:30 p.m., with the nightcap featuring UCLA and Washington State at 11 p.m.
MASN2 has a Big 12 doubleheader Saturday, with Baylor at Kansas State at 1:30 p.m. and Oklahoma taking on TCU at 4 p.m. Duquesne and George Mason meet at 7 p.m.
George Washington closes its regular season at Fordham on Comcast Saturday at 4:30 p.m. There's two games from the CAA quarterfinals, with top-seed Delaware playing at noon followed by Drexel-Northeastern.
NBC Sports network offers George Mason against LaSalle Thursday at 8 p.m. There's the semifinals of the CAA tournament Sunday at 2:30 and 5 p.m.
Comcast has the ACC women's tournament quarterfinals Friday. Syracuse and North Carolina State play at 11 a.m., followed by Florida State-Notre Dame at 2, Georgia Tech meeting Duke at 6 and North Carolina against Maryland at 8 p.m.
ESPN has four conference championship games Sunday. The Big Ten crowns its champion at 1 p.m., then the best of the SEC battle at 3:30 p.m. The ACC title game is at 7 p.m. and the Pac 12 plays at 9 p.m.
The Big 12 tournament semifinals are on FoxSports1 Sunday at 3 and 5:30 p.m. There's a Big 12 quarterfinal game on MASN2 Saturday at 9:30 p.m.
ESPN offers the Grizzlies and Bulls Friday at 7 p.m., then the Pacers visit the Rockets. ABC has the Heat and Bulls Sunday at 1 p.m. followed by the Thunder taking on the Lakers.
It's another weekend out west for NASCAR, with the race from Las Vegas Sunday at 3 p.m. on Fox. ESPN2 has the Nationwide race Saturday at 4 p.m.
The Capitals and Phoenix battle Saturday at 7 p.m. on Comcast. NBC brings the Red Wings at Rangers Sunday at noon.
The Penguins visit San Jose Thursday at 10:30 p.m. on NBC Sports network. The Blackhawks head to Buffalo Sunday at 7:30 p.m.
NBC offers the PGA tour's Cadillac Championships Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m.
The Orioles face the Phillies in a spring training game Friday at 1 p.m. on MASN, then play the Red Sox Saturday at 1 p.m. The Nationals go against the Cardinals Sunday at 1 p.m.
MASN2 has college softball between UAB and East Carolina Sunday at noon.
The MLS season season this weekend, with Sporting Kansas City facing Seattle Saturday at 3 p.m. on NBC Sports network.
NBC Sports network has the opening ceremonies of the Paralympic Games at Sochi Friday at 11 a.m. There's Alpine skiing Saturday at 1 a.m. and cross-country skiing Sunday at 1 a.m.
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Reset, bump, spike
Rich Lowry looks at the failure of the reset button.
In a 2009 visit to Moscow, the springtime of reset, President Obama professed his belief “that Americans and Russians have a common interest in the development of rule of law, the strengthening of democracy, and the protection of human rights.” He was 0 for 3.
The Obama crew felt George W. Bush did things wrong.
Instead, they found a new way to do things wrong.
In a 2009 visit to Moscow, the springtime of reset, President Obama professed his belief “that Americans and Russians have a common interest in the development of rule of law, the strengthening of democracy, and the protection of human rights.” He was 0 for 3.
The Obama crew felt George W. Bush did things wrong.
Instead, they found a new way to do things wrong.
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Willy's frozen treats
Willy's Ice Cream stand and piles of leftover snow don't usually go together.
They did tonight, as the Waynesboro favorite has opened for the season.
Spring is coming.
Even if there's snow and frozen temperatures in town.
They did tonight, as the Waynesboro favorite has opened for the season.
Spring is coming.
Even if there's snow and frozen temperatures in town.
Singin' in Ukraine
The People's Cube has the best songs for Obama and Ukraine.
Enjoy the comments as well.
Enjoy the comments as well.
Jersey moocher girl
An 18-year-old girl and her parents disagree about her boyfriend.
Happens all the time.
The girl doesn't usually sue for money and college expenses.
Fortunately, a judge didn't order parents to pay her bills in Tuesday's first hearing.
Parents across New Jersey - and the United States - cheered.
But there's another hearing to come.
Are parents just a money tree?
Do they have to pay bills for an ungrateful child?
Time for the girl to learn about real life.
Happens all the time.
The girl doesn't usually sue for money and college expenses.
Fortunately, a judge didn't order parents to pay her bills in Tuesday's first hearing.
Parents across New Jersey - and the United States - cheered.
But there's another hearing to come.
Are parents just a money tree?
Do they have to pay bills for an ungrateful child?
Time for the girl to learn about real life.
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Climate change learning days
Up and down the east coast, school districts are dealing with the collision between the calendar and this winter's rough weather.
Augusta County had five built-in snow days and five makeup days in the original schedule.
Wednesday's day off will be the 11th of the season.
They have already pushed past the original final day of June 6. If the final day has to be the following week, when some people have already planned their vacations?
There will be pressure on state governments to waive the 180-day requirement, since so many districts have used all their days.
Why do that?
Let's make it a learning experience.
Days this week should be considered "Climate Change Learning Days."
No matter how much you plan, you can't anticipate all the weather you'll get.
Students can learn the real lessons of our weather - not speculation of what might happen.
If any schools have lesson plans on "global warming," these could be shelved this year. Weather may not be climate, but this year is a mixed message for the "we've got to do something now" crew.
I look forward to Governor Terry McAuliffe declaring" Climate Change Learning Days." Unless he's learned President Obama's "waivers for everybody" style.
Augusta County had five built-in snow days and five makeup days in the original schedule.
Wednesday's day off will be the 11th of the season.
They have already pushed past the original final day of June 6. If the final day has to be the following week, when some people have already planned their vacations?
There will be pressure on state governments to waive the 180-day requirement, since so many districts have used all their days.
Why do that?
Let's make it a learning experience.
Days this week should be considered "Climate Change Learning Days."
No matter how much you plan, you can't anticipate all the weather you'll get.
Students can learn the real lessons of our weather - not speculation of what might happen.
If any schools have lesson plans on "global warming," these could be shelved this year. Weather may not be climate, but this year is a mixed message for the "we've got to do something now" crew.
I look forward to Governor Terry McAuliffe declaring" Climate Change Learning Days." Unless he's learned President Obama's "waivers for everybody" style.
Saving his bullying for us
Powerline examines the Obama conundrum - wimp internationally and vicious fighter of American values at home.
The unifying theme would be an ideological aversion to the United States sufficient to cause Obama to (1) push for the radical transformation of the nation’s domestic policy through unlawful methods and (2) weaken the nation internationally by declining to assert American influence or even willfully ceding influence, including to our adversaries.
The question, in other words, is whether Obama behaves as he does in foreign affairs because he is naive or because he understands how the world works and simply wants the U.S. to have much less say about it.
The unifying theme would be an ideological aversion to the United States sufficient to cause Obama to (1) push for the radical transformation of the nation’s domestic policy through unlawful methods and (2) weaken the nation internationally by declining to assert American influence or even willfully ceding influence, including to our adversaries.
The question, in other words, is whether Obama behaves as he does in foreign affairs because he is naive or because he understands how the world works and simply wants the U.S. to have much less say about it.
Do you believe what he believes?
The Weekly Standard examines President Obama's "I believe it so it's true" way of looking at the world - and how it collides with reality in the Middle East.
Change is apparently not scary to Mr. Obama, who is confident all his policies are right. Those who disagree are uninformed, or itching for conflict, or ignorant about the risks they will soon face, or sadly unable to adapt to world events. This is the Obama who said of his own nomination that “this was the moment when the rise of the oceans began to slow and our planet began to heal.” If he believes it, it must be so. The Goldberg interview reveals that five years in, nothing has changed.
Reading the interview, many people believe we're in big trouble.
Change is apparently not scary to Mr. Obama, who is confident all his policies are right. Those who disagree are uninformed, or itching for conflict, or ignorant about the risks they will soon face, or sadly unable to adapt to world events. This is the Obama who said of his own nomination that “this was the moment when the rise of the oceans began to slow and our planet began to heal.” If he believes it, it must be so. The Goldberg interview reveals that five years in, nothing has changed.
Reading the interview, many people believe we're in big trouble.
Monday, March 3, 2014
Read while waiting in line
Via Instapundit, a great article on the unhappy people who shop at Whole Foods.
Outside the four walls of a Whole Foods, you might recognize these people as Gawker commenters or Twitter shamers. Inside, they are the breathless, self-important shoppers who just can’t believe!! that it’s taking this long to check out. They are busy, they have somewhere to be. Don’t these people in the other six open checkout lanes that are each 3 shoppers deep understand that, WTF??!?
The lines move faster at Wal-Mart.
Deal with it.
Outside the four walls of a Whole Foods, you might recognize these people as Gawker commenters or Twitter shamers. Inside, they are the breathless, self-important shoppers who just can’t believe!! that it’s taking this long to check out. They are busy, they have somewhere to be. Don’t these people in the other six open checkout lanes that are each 3 shoppers deep understand that, WTF??!?
The lines move faster at Wal-Mart.
Deal with it.
Hillary has to run
The weak Democratic bench makes almost necessary for Hillary Clinton to run for president.
Democrats who are ready for Hillary aren't ready for anyone else.
On the national level, the Democratic bench is weaker, or more overshadowed, than at any time in the past several decades. There are several reasons. The election disaster in 2010 wiped out many possibilities, especially at the gubernatorial level. More important, with two heavyweight camps -- President Barack Obama and the Clintons -- there is no political oxygen for anyone else.
Too bad Democrats are depending on Hillary being healthy enough for a long campaign.
Democrats who are ready for Hillary aren't ready for anyone else.
On the national level, the Democratic bench is weaker, or more overshadowed, than at any time in the past several decades. There are several reasons. The election disaster in 2010 wiped out many possibilities, especially at the gubernatorial level. More important, with two heavyweight camps -- President Barack Obama and the Clintons -- there is no political oxygen for anyone else.
Too bad Democrats are depending on Hillary being healthy enough for a long campaign.
His fantasy, but our nightmare
The Washington Post tries to bring some reality into the Obama foreign policy.
FOR FIVE YEARS, President Obama has led a foreign policy based more on how he thinks the world should operate than on reality. It was a world in which “the tide of war is receding” and the United States could, without much risk, radically reduce the size of its armed forces. Other leaders, in this vision, would behave rationally and in the interest of their people and the world. Invasions, brute force, great-power games and shifting alliances — these were things of the past.
How much reality will it take to wake up the Obama crew?
FOR FIVE YEARS, President Obama has led a foreign policy based more on how he thinks the world should operate than on reality. It was a world in which “the tide of war is receding” and the United States could, without much risk, radically reduce the size of its armed forces. Other leaders, in this vision, would behave rationally and in the interest of their people and the world. Invasions, brute force, great-power games and shifting alliances — these were things of the past.
How much reality will it take to wake up the Obama crew?
Sunday, March 2, 2014
Poor Adam
How did Adam Sandler not claim a Razzie Award?
He'll have to try harder to be bad in the coming year.
He'll have to try harder to be bad in the coming year.
The despots' heel is at thy shore
Maryland did its best to implement Obamacare.
No Republican obstruction there.
Still didn't work.
Maybe some healthy skepticism could have helped.
No Republican obstruction there.
Still didn't work.
Maybe some healthy skepticism could have helped.
Learning through scaring
DaTech lists the good conservative lessons from Monster University.
The big character in this show is Mike Wazowski what does he do to get to where he is. HE WORKS. He studies, he crams. He doesn’t make excuses for his limitations he resolves to work twice as hard to know all that needs to know. He is the Greg Maddox of Monsters Inc he doesn’t have the fast ball of James Sullivan but is willing to widen the plate.
As a former mailroom employee, I salute his thinking.
The big character in this show is Mike Wazowski what does he do to get to where he is. HE WORKS. He studies, he crams. He doesn’t make excuses for his limitations he resolves to work twice as hard to know all that needs to know. He is the Greg Maddox of Monsters Inc he doesn’t have the fast ball of James Sullivan but is willing to widen the plate.
As a former mailroom employee, I salute his thinking.
Top down, then cover up
Today's a day to suspend belief.
Highs in the 50s, and preparing for a big ice and snow day.
If you have a convertible, put the top down today.
But don't forget to close it before nightfall.
Highs in the 50s, and preparing for a big ice and snow day.
If you have a convertible, put the top down today.
But don't forget to close it before nightfall.
Cavalier fans are Swift
Virginia basketball fans got loud Saturday as the team won the ACC championship by knocking off Syracuse.
Coach Tony Bennett talked about a concert experience to compare crowds.
Last time I heard it that loud I was at the Taylor Swift concert. I remember I sat there and there were 14,000 teenage girls screaming and I was like `I wonder if we can get it like this for a game.' And I'm telling you something; it either rivaled or surpassed it. It was that good.
Play it again.
Coach Tony Bennett talked about a concert experience to compare crowds.
Last time I heard it that loud I was at the Taylor Swift concert. I remember I sat there and there were 14,000 teenage girls screaming and I was like `I wonder if we can get it like this for a game.' And I'm telling you something; it either rivaled or surpassed it. It was that good.
Play it again.
Saturday, March 1, 2014
Knowing more but knowing less
American Interest examines how pundits and politicians missed the signs about Putin and Ukraine.
It's the cocoon they live in.
We blame this in part on the absence of true intellectual and ideological diversity in so much of the academy, the policy world and the mainstream media. Most college kids at good schools today know many more people from different races and cultural groups than their grandparents did, but they are much less exposed to people who think outside the left-liberal box. How many faithful New York Times readers have no idea what American conservatives think, much less how Russian oligarchs do? Well bred and well read Americans live in an ideological and cultural cocoon and this makes them fatally slow to understand the very different motivations that animate actors ranging from the Tea Party to the Kremlin to, dare we say it, the Supreme Leader and Guide of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
It's the cocoon they live in.
We blame this in part on the absence of true intellectual and ideological diversity in so much of the academy, the policy world and the mainstream media. Most college kids at good schools today know many more people from different races and cultural groups than their grandparents did, but they are much less exposed to people who think outside the left-liberal box. How many faithful New York Times readers have no idea what American conservatives think, much less how Russian oligarchs do? Well bred and well read Americans live in an ideological and cultural cocoon and this makes them fatally slow to understand the very different motivations that animate actors ranging from the Tea Party to the Kremlin to, dare we say it, the Supreme Leader and Guide of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Tight gradient
The phrase for the weekend in Virginia is "tight gradient."
A snowstorm appears on its way.
How much will you get?
The numbers for expected snow jumped Saturday morning to night, as the projected path of the storm slipped south.
It's where tight gradient comes into play. A few miles could make a big difference in how much snow you get.
What's predicted Sunday might be right - or quite wrong.
Get your shovels ready.
A snowstorm appears on its way.
How much will you get?
The numbers for expected snow jumped Saturday morning to night, as the projected path of the storm slipped south.
It's where tight gradient comes into play. A few miles could make a big difference in how much snow you get.
What's predicted Sunday might be right - or quite wrong.
Get your shovels ready.
Crimea River
What's up in the Ukraine today?
How could we not see this coming?
Or admit we were wrong to question those who questioned the possibility back in 2008?
Maybe Assad could help Obama deal with Putin this time.
How could we not see this coming?
Or admit we were wrong to question those who questioned the possibility back in 2008?
Maybe Assad could help Obama deal with Putin this time.
Facebook quote of the week
Less than 24 hours to tipoff for the UVA-Syracuse game. In one sense, I've been waiting all season for this game. In another, I've been waiting 30 years. It's almost here. Win or lose, it's going to be an unforgettable day.
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